There are lots of roadside providers in the market, from vehicle manufacturers to insurers and dedicated roadside assistance firms. These providers are great if your car needs a little tweaking to get started, e.g. fuel top-up, tyre change, or battery jump-start. However, if you have a more serious problem on your hands, e.g. accident damage or mechanical failure, a tow company is what you need. And here's why.

No tow distance limit

Most roadside assistance providers, especially insurers and membership clubs, have a limit on just how far you can get towed after being rescued by the road. If your car gives out on you by the road, you do not want a rescue provider who puts a cap on just how far they can tow your vehicle. You want a provider who will tow you to wherever you want, no matter the distance. Tow truck companies will do just that, allowing to you take your vehicle directly home or to your preferred mechanic.

No membership or vehicle make restriction

Motor clubs and manufacturer-based roadside assistance services are only eligible if your vehicle belongs to that club's or manufacturer's vehicle make. So if you left the applicable vehicle at home and took a different car with you, you will not be able to seek assistance from any of them. With membership-based roadside assistance companies, you must be a member to get rescued. Thankfully, commercial tow companies are open for anyone. All you need to do is make a call out and someone will come to your aid.

No subscription fee needed

Some roadside assistance providers work on the basis of a subscription fee. Paying this fee is what qualifies you for rescue services. From then on you may enjoy their services for free or you may have to pay for some at discounted rates. This subscription fee is often annual. Tow companies have no such requirement. All you need to pay is the cost of towing as calculated by the towed distance. And even that cost may not apply in some cases as explained below.

May enjoy free towing if you seek repairs

It is common for tow companies to offer free towing if you will seek repair service from their garage. This is a great perk which is not available with other roadside assistance providers. This offer applies to tow truck companies who also operate an auto service shop or are affiliated with one. However, if you do decide that you want to be towed to another location, you will just be charged the standard fee.

Besides, with tow truck services you are not tied down to any one provider. You can simply change companies at will if the service is not satisfactory or you can just call the provider that is closest to where you are when stranded.